Mindfulness, intentionally bringing awareness to the current moment, has been receiving a lot of attention as of late. Mary T. Schmitz, LICSW, & Mindful Education Specialist for Elk River Area Schools will help educators understand what Mindfulness is and why it makes sense to practice Mindfulness at school. By considering current neuroscience research as well as what we know about how children learn along with noticing what often interrupts that process, namely emotion dysregulation and lack of focus, Schmitz will share how Mindfulness may be an anecdote. Additionally, Mary T. will create fun, safe space for educators to learn some Mindfulness Practices for self-care.

OBJECTIVES:

● Explore Mind-Body connection and how it affects learning and behavior

● Increase understanding of Mindfulness and the neuroscience of attention, learning and behavior

● Provide insight and Practice for Educators to integrate Mindfulness into their personal lives as a means to manage and reduce stress and decrease educator burnout.

Mary T. is a LICSW and been working as a School Social Worker for over two decades. Currently, Mary T. is the Mindfulness Education Specialist for the Elk River Area School District. Schmitz’ training specific to Mindfulness includes: